Digital Learning Tips ‘n Techniques |
A Pre-Flight Checklist
In aviation, a preflight checklist is a list of tasks performed by pilots before takeoff. Based on a select few principles of the Hybrid/Online Course Development and Evaluation Rubric (despite the title, the Rubric largely applies to face-to-face classes too) and other best practices, using this checklist can help avoid needless problems before your course lifts off the virtual tarmac!
The Checklist
Alignment
Course Orientation and Structure
- Create a welcome message, preferably including a welcome video, and publish it on the home page of your course.
- Double-check your Syllabus for accuracy.
- Share your course schedule, including using the Canvas Zoom App to schedule synchronous online sessions
- Proof your course units’ structure, sequence, and labeling.
Engagement
- Explicitly share information about communication channels, including email availability, discussion forums, and other avenues as appropriate.
- Make your office hours schedule and mode(s) clear on your syllabus and site.
Accessibility
Assignments and Assessments
- Make certain that your Canvas Assignments and Assignment Groups are accurate and match the information in your syllabus.
- Consider the graded items in your course and provide specific descriptive criteria for evaluation and assignment of points.
Logistics and Publishing
- Step through your course in Student View, including your Modules area (or equivalent, to ensure all intended items are available, and links to documents and external resources are working.
- View your Course Calendar and/or Course Summary to verify that the course events are accurate.
- PUBLISH YOUR COURSE! You would be surprised how often this is overlooked.
Resources
Teaching Tip by Chris Lott <clott@uw.edu> | 9/29/22 | Photo by Glenn Carstens-Peters on Unsplash